What do you think is the biggest misconception about vegans and how do you address this?

People think we don't eat anything. A typical question is “what do you guys eat?” then I give a whole list of various foods I do eat. They're surprised when they realize its even more then what they're eating.

What are you strengths as a vegan athlete?

Definitely my physical abilities.

What is your biggest challenge?

Doing a full Ironman, which I intend to do someday.

Are the non-vegans in your industry supportive or not?

The majority are yes.

Are your family and friends supportive of your vegan lifestyle?

Yes, but they like making jokes about it. For example, if they bring me dinner, they cut their grass and put it in a bag for me. I always respond, “I’d rather eat your grass then eat dead animal corpses.” they change the subject hahaha.

What is the most common question/comment that people ask/say when they find out that you are a vegan and how do you respond?

“How you get your protein?” or “How you keep your muscle?” Then I go on and on about how I eat quinoa almost everyday, lots of grains, all kind of beans, green vegetables, a lot of Vega products especially the 100% protein powder after every work out etc.

Who or what motivates you?

The fact that everyday more and more people are becoming more conscious about the real issues in our world. They are becoming more open to veganism, understanding animal cruelty, understanding what meat and dairy product does to their body, understanding the impact on our environment. Every day, the number of vegans grows as well as restaurants adjusting their menus to cater to vegans. I think we’re on the right path.